Arsene Wenger heaps praise on Hector Bellerin after Sunderland win

Arsene Wenger has described Hector Bellerin as one of the best right-backs in the country after the Spaniard starred in Arsenal's 3-1 FA Cup third-round win over Sunderland.

Bellerin set up the Gunners' second and third goals as the defending champions fought back from a goal down to book their place in the fourth round.

"[Bellerin] became stronger and stronger," Wenger told reporters. "Sometimes I felt in the last 20 minutes, every time he went forward he created a chance on goal."

When asked if Bellerin was the best right-back in the country, Wenger added: "I don't know. Of course [he is among the best]. Look at the defensive and offensive numbers. The fact that he is only 20 years old, there is a lot more to come from him."

Bellerin, who has three-and-a-half years left on his Arsenal contract, broke into the Gunners' first team last season and has 38 Premier League appearances to his name.